One Year Anniversary of the Launch of the Schooner Ardelle From Len Burgess

Great weather Monday night for a special sail to celebrate the launch of the schooner Ardelle. It was one year ago last July 9, 2011 that the schooner splashed down into the Essex river in front of about 2500 people. It was a textbook Essex side launch that occurred at high tide about 6 p.m in the evening. What a sight is was. And, a year later here’s Capt. Harold Burnham’s doing what he loves! It would not have been possible without the amazing help of all of the shipwrights, friends and family who helped build and launch the Ardelle!

Harold lights a candle for the cake that celebrates the one year anniversary of the launch of the schooner Ardelle.

Shipwrights, friends, family and crew gather aboard for a special night

Tom and Kay Ellis of the schooner Lannon sailed close by firing a salute with their cannon and guests sing Happy Birthday to the Ardelle.

Friends, shipwright and our most awesome cook, Cathy and Bruce Slifer sail past during the song! They should have been on board!

Zack the young apprentice who was the only one onboard the Ardelle when it was launched last year was Harold’s crew for the night.

Steve reads a tribute to Harold and the Ardelle.

Bernie Noon was at the Helm most of the evening

Harold did video interviews during the sail with some of his loyal helpers.

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2 comments

Nice coverage, Len.
Whenever I walk along there Boulevard or the Inner Harbor and see ARDELLE I remember that great launch day and the collective emotions of the thousands of spectators witnessing what may have been the last of a great tradition. ARDELLE is a blessed part of our Gloucester mosaic and I, for one, will always be thankful to Harold and his crew of volunteers.

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As long as supplies last if any GMG folks want a bumper sticker but can't drop down the dock, just send a self addressed and stamped envelope longer then 7 and a half inches and I'll drop one in the mail for you.

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Free GMG Gloucester Sticker

As long as supplies last if any GMG folks want a bumper sticker but can't drop down the dock, just send a self addressed and stamped envelope longer then 7 and a half inches and I'll drop one in the mail for you.

Send the self addressed and stamped envelope to the dock at 95 East Main St Gloucester Ma 01930 care of Joey (put my name in big letters to make sure it gets to me)